Learning to Pray the Jesus WaySample

Learning To Pray Pivotally

In science, we learn of a pivot point called the fulcrum on which when something is placed it will move it with ease. Think of a seesaw or a door on hinges. These everyday objects move smoothly and easily because of their pivot. A pivot creates a turnaround with little force. A pivotal prayer does the same thing. It’s the sort of prayer that shifts the spiritual atmosphere and brings God’s will squarely into focus. It’s the sort of prayer that is God-honoring and Kingdom-benefiting. When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them how to pray, He responded by teaching them the now well-known “Lord’s Prayer.” This prayer is short and sweet; yet it is all-encompassing. That’s what a pivotal prayer looks like. Tim Elmore defines pivotal praying as “learning to pray at higher levels.” He also says that these prayers are “mission-driven and not maintenance-driven.” 

When we analyze the Lord’s prayer, you’ll see a pivotal prayer hidden in plain sight. It begins with addressing God, the Father, and honoring His name. It continues with Jesus asking for the Kingdom of God to come on earth, to provide everything needed for that day, and then for forgiveness for the one praying. It doesn’t stop there but ensures that forgiveness received becomes forgiveness shown, in case we forget about that, and then closes with a request for protection from evil. 

A prayer like this changes the equation from us to the Kingdom of God. It’s not wrong to pray for ourselves—in fact, it’s imperative that we do. What if instead, we prayed for ourselves with an eternal perspective? What if our prayers are about asking God for His kingdom to invade our lives so that many more find salvation in Jesus’ name? 

This may just revolutionize our lives and make us mighty channels for God’s work in our world.